Photo By Patrick Griffith | U.S. Air Force Col. Jun S. Oh, 316th Wing and installation commander, and Edward C....... read more read more
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JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families held a “Mission Strong” summit at Andrews Aug. 8, 2025, to bring together military leaders, state officials, and community partners to focus on enhancing the support network for service members, veterans, and their families.
Edward C. Rothstein, the department’s newly appointed secretary, and Col. Jun S. Oh, 316th Wing and installation commander, opened the event with a fireside chat to begin dialogue on issues facing veterans and their families. The two leaders shared personal stories and professional insights and spoke about the vital role of families in mission success.
“Military families are a critical component to our military force, and we cannot do what we do without their support,” Oh said. “I like to say it's a very unique family business, and without that love and support -- and they make a lot of sacrifices -- they are one of the unsung heroes.”
Rothstein retired as an Army colonel and was garrison commander at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, from 2011 to 2013. During that time, he said the post saw increases in suicide rates, spousal and child abuse, and drug problems, so he established a resiliency center, which continues to operate on the post to this day.
“It's designed for every Airman, every service member, every civilian, every family member, contractor, [Department of Defense] civilian, it doesn't matter, because we all have the same challenges,” he said. “I'm pretty proud that that residency center has made it through a half a dozen commands since I left because they recognize the priorities that resiliency and education mean something and matter.”
Echoing the theme of resiliency, Oh emphasized the need for such support extends beyond facilities and programs -- it’s also about encouraging service members and families to seek help when they need it.
“Sometimes our military members are so strong and resilient, they don’t want to ask for help -- they don’t want to feel vulnerable,” Oh said. “That’s where we come in, to provide the necessary support so that we can all be vulnerable when we need to be, because we all need help.”
The conversation also underscored the importance of partnerships that extend beyond the installation’s gates. Rothstein referenced the “Team Meade” approach at Fort Meade, where military, local government, and business communities work together seamlessly.
“I believe every installation in Maryland should have that type of attitude,” he said. “If you have the attitude of teamwork and the attitude of embracing each other, it's limitless.”
As the forum concluded, both leaders challenged participants to focus on a few clear, actionable goals that could be realistically resourced and implemented.
“Build those strong relationships, strengthen them, and remember—we are part of your community,” Oh said. “We're so thankful for being able to network, partner up and improve the quality of life for our service members and family members.”
| Date Taken: | 08.12.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 08.12.2025 14:51 |
| Story ID: | 545418 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 32 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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